Who are we?

The British Embassy in Sofia is part of a worldwide network, representing British political, economic and consular interests overseas and is now looking to recruit a Head of the Ambassador’s Office.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly efficient, organised, and proactive individual to play a central role in strengthening the UK’s relationship with Bulgaria. The Head of the Ambassador’s Office provides direct support to His Majesty’s Ambassador (HMA) in nearly all aspects of leadership, ensuring the smooth operation of a dynamic and high-profile office.

The jobholder will manage HMA’s diary, commission briefings, draft correspondence, coordinate participation in events for HMA and the Deputy Head of Mission (DHM), oversee tasking across Embassy sections, arrange travel, and cultivate a wide network of stakeholders.

This position offers unparalleled exposure to senior leadership and international diplomacy. It is a demanding, fast-paced, and rewarding role with a meaningful impact at the heart of UK foreign policy.

Why you should apply:

• Outstanding career development opportunity for the right candidate in an exciting yet friendly environment;
• 25 days’ annual leave plus UK and Bulgarian holidays;
• Mobile phone with unlimited data and calls; 
• Other benefits include free parking space in city centre (Moskovska St, if available), staff club, staff and children’s Christmas party and access to our heated open air swimming pool (open during summer months).

Roles and responsibilities:

Personal Assistance: 30%

• Provide comprehensive personal assistance to the Ambassador – managing his diary in an efficient and timely manner, advising HMA on short and long-term diary issues, planning and scheduling meetings, regional trips, making travel arrangements, managing participation in events, drafting correspondence.
• Act as cover for the PA to DHM, providing personal assistance to DHM.

Liaison across Embassy: 25%

• Liaise effectively with all Embassy sections, coordinating tasks, commissioning and compiling briefing, ensuring timely handling of briefings, programmes, speeches, etc.

Stakeholder engagement and communication: 20%

• Liaise efficiently with stakeholders – Bulgarian institutions, other missions, NGOs, businesses, FCDO and cross-White Hall colleagues, and maintain an excellent network of contacts.
• Respond in a timely and professional manner to queries.
• Act as the gatekeeper for HMA, filtering requests and invitations, and delivering difficult messages where necessary.

Events: 10 %

• Providing support for organising major events (e.g King’s Birthday Party), including a leading role in Remembrance Service;
• Providing support for organising high-level and VIP visits, advising on protocol issues, liaison with Ministry of Foreign Affairs, providing support with logistics.

Country Board: 5 %

• Act as secretary of the Embassy Country Board, including organising meetings, taking minutes, ensuring follow-up on actions.

Line Management Responsibilities – 10%

• Manage three members of staff, providing guidance and support.

Our ideal candidates shows:

• Proficiency in Bulgarian and English (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level according to CEFR*)
• Strong planning, organisational and problem-solving skills;
• Clear communicator with strong interpersonal skills and excellent customer service skills;
• Ability to work under pressure to meet multiple and changing priorities
• Bachelor’s degree
• At least 2 years of relevant work experience;
• Excellent IT literacy (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, Power Point).